Is this a new idea? D I Y Electric kicker steering

[seafever]

I have been looking at the various ways of steering a kicker with the main engine. There are no really good marinas or boat dealers around here to buy stuff.
So I was browsing through the Princess Auto catalog ( similar to Harbor Freight) for some kind of pivoting shaft connector.
The next page shows a 12 volt linear actuator with a 12" travel. Now I am thinking if I mount that on the kicker transom plate with a cable maybe 10 ft long, and a DPDT momentary switch, I can steer the kicker with a fingertip from anywhere in the boat. That with remote throttle and shift should be great. The only better way I can see is a wireless winch control to steer with. It will cost about $175 to put this together and maybe 2 or 3 hours including building the mounting bracket.
I am open for suggestions. Oh yeah, I have a second 12V battery and solar charger to run fish finder, lights, stereo, VHF radio etc so that can power the steering actuator also.
Am I reinventing the wheel here for something that is cheaper to buy than to build?

 

[Frank Acampora]

Re: Is this a new idea? D I Y Electric kicker steering

Most people attach their kicker to the main engine with a commercially sold ling. They then use the main engine to steer.

HOWEVER, I like your idea because of its versatility. I say, if the money doesn't hurt you, go for it. Then, post results and photos here.

 

[kfa4303]

Re: Is this a new idea? D I Y Electric kicker steering

Ditto. You can buy a rig, but that's no fun. I'd love to see a cool DIY McGuyver set up.

 

[JimS123]

Re: Is this a new idea? D I Y Electric kicker steering

Personally, I don't like the commercially available ez steers that link to the main. So, I bought a piece of SS rod and a pair of QD ball joints and built it myself. Two hours and 20 bucks. Used an existing bolt on one and drilled a hole in the lower cowl on the other.

Steering from the main is the ONLY way to go. When my kids wanted to troll and i didn't I have often unhooked it and steered with the kicker tiller while sitting on the aft deck. I don't do that any more. NO control. Even if i tilt the main all the way up it too hard to keep on course, with the kicker speed varying all the time as well.

 

[seafever]

Re: Is this a new idea? D I Y Electric kicker steering

I did a quick check on E bay last night. Since most of the stuff we get today is made in china, korea hong kong japan anyway, I looked there. The 12volt actuator with 12 inch travel is $130 here but just $60 from China with free shipping. I really like the concept of steering from anywhere, I wont have to run to the helm for every little heading correction and sitting on the stern is out of the question. I would be able to steer while fighting a fish if necessary, or anyone could steer from wherever they are sitting. Total cost will be about $75 for a cable and switch control or about $125 for wireless remote steering.
And yes I'll post pics when I get it assembled.